Tourism milestones: honored destinations and events of Indiana history.

• Position: Tourism & Recreation

MILESTONES AWARDS recognizing organizations and historic events marking 75 years or more of history are awarded each year by the Indiana Department of Commerce's Office of Tourism and Film Development. This year's recipients are:

The Mesker Park Zoo and Botanic Garden in Evansville is celebrating its 75th year in operation this year. The zoo is home to nearly 600 animals, including Donna, the oldest living hippo in captivity, who turns 53 in July The Mesker Park Zoo has gone through many transformations during the past 75 years. The facility sits on 50 acres and includes dams, lakes and the recently opened Children's Enchanted Forest, which gives kids a chance to interact with animals that live in the forest.

Triple XXX Family Restaurant, West Lafayette, is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. Tire restaurant started as a root-beer stand with a seating capacity of only five to 10 people. Triple XXX is said to be the state's first drive-in restaurant and has maintained its same location on State Street Hill since its establishment in 1929. The menu has expanded but the restaurant remains a favorite gathering place for locals.

The Purdue University Memorial Union, also in West Lafayette, also marks its 75th anniversary in 2004. The building was erected in the years following World War I to honor veterans. The union provides a place for students, faculty and others to relax, socialize, learn and be entertained. The building includes restaurants, activity areas, meeting rooms and offices used by the university and the community.

The Ancilla Chapel in Plymouth is celebrating its 75th anniversary. The chapel, referred to by visitors as the "Chapel in a Cornfield," seats up to 500 people. Among the attributes of the chapel are neo-gothic columns, altars made of butternut and golden oak, and stained-glass windows. The windows were designed and made by Francis Xavier Zettler of the Royal Bavarian Art Institute of Munich, Germany Guests may tour the chapel at no cost.

The Dixie, located in North Webster, marks its 75th anniversary this year. The Dixie is Indiana's oldest stern-wheel riverboat. The boat was built in 1929 and has been cruising the waters of Webster Lake ever since. Visitors enjoy a relaxing ride on the Dixie while learning about its history and enjoying concessions. The Dixie offers daily tours of 45 to 55 minutes around the nine miles of Webster Lake's shoreline from Memorial Day to Labor Day During September, tours are offered...